Maine State Prisons

Overview of the Maine State Prison System

The State of Maine has a relatively small prison system compared to other states. The system is managed by the Maine Department of Corrections (MDOC). Here is a detailed summary of the key aspects of the Maine State prison system.

Maine operates several correctional facilities, including:

• Maine State Prison in Warren: The primary maximum-security facility.
• Maine Correctional Center in Windham: Houses a mixed security population.
• Charleston Correctional Facility: A minimum-security facility.
• Bolduc Correctional Facility in Warren: Another minimum-security facility.
• Mountain View Correctional Facility: A medium- and minimum-security facility.

Management Structure

The Maine Department of Corrections oversees all state prisons. The MDOC is responsible for ensuring that the facilities are run in accordance with state laws and regulations, focusing on safety, security, and rehabilitation.

Incarceration Rate

As of the most recent data, Maine has one of the lowest incarceration rates in the United States. The rate is approximately 132 per 100,000 residents, significantly lower than the national average.

Locating a Prisoner

To locate a prisoner in the Maine prison system, the MDOC provides an online Prisoner/Probationer Search Tool. This tool can be accessed via the MDOC website: MDOC Prisoner Search.

Family Visitation Rules

Family visitation is encouraged in Maine’s state prisons as part of the rehabilitation process. Here are some general rules:

• Scheduling Visits: Visits must be scheduled in advance.
• Visiting Hours: Specific visiting hours vary by facility.
• Identification: Visitors must present valid identification.
• Dress Code: Visitors must adhere to a strict dress code.
• Search Procedures: All visitors are subject to search upon entry.
• Prohibited Items: Certain items are not allowed inside the visiting area.

Classification of Prison Security Levels

Maine’s prisons are classified based on security levels:

• Maximum Security: High-risk inmates, strict supervision.
• Medium Security: Moderate-risk inmates, controlled environment.
• Minimum Security: Low-risk inmates, more freedom, and work release programs.

Parole and Factors Considered

Factors considered in making parole decisions include:

• Nature of the Offense: Severity and circumstances.
• Behavior in Prison: Disciplinary record and participation in programs.
• Risk Assessment: Likelihood of re-offending.
• Support System: Family and community support.

Prison Educational and Vocational Programs

Maine prisons offer a variety of educational and vocational programs aimed at rehabilitation, including:

• GED and High School Diploma Programs: Basic education.
• Vocational Training: Skills in trades like carpentry, plumbing, and culinary arts.
• College Courses: In partnership with local colleges.
• Life Skills Training: Financial literacy, job readiness, and personal development.

Prison Rehabilitative Programs

The Maine prison system provides several rehabilitative programs:

• Substance Abuse Treatment: Programs for inmates with addiction issues.
• Mental Health Services: Counseling and psychiatric services.
• Reentry Programs: Assistance with transitioning back into society.
• Anger Management: Courses to help manage aggressive behavior.
• Parenting Classes: For incarcerated parents to improve family relationships.

Pros and Cons of the Maine State Prison System

PROS

• Low Incarceration Rate: Reflects effective use of alternatives to incarceration.
• Focus on Rehabilitation: Comprehensive programs aimed at reducing recidivism.
• Community Support: Strong emphasis on family visitation and community reintegration.
• Educational Opportunities: Access to a wide range of educational and vocational training.

CONS

• Limited Facilities: Few facilities may lead to overcrowding issues.
• Resource Constraints: Budget limitations can affect program availability and quality.
• Geographical Challenges: Remote locations of some prisons can make family visitation difficult.
• Inconsistent Program Access: Not all inmates have equal access to all rehabilitative programs.

Main State Prison News

Main State Prison Staff Accused of Misconduct

The prison in Warren is being investigated over allegations of hazing, harassment, and inappropriate relationships between staff and people who are incarcerated:

Sources and Reference Links

Maine Department of Corrections Website: Maine DOC
Prison Policy Initiative: Maine Incarceration Rates
MDOC Prisoner Search: MDOC Prisoner Search

MAIN STATE PRISONS;

Bolduc Correctional Facility

Bolduc Correctional Facility
516 Cushing Road
Warren, ME 04864

Telephone:

(207)-273-2036
(207)-273-5123 Main
(207)-273-5125 Visits (Mon -Thur 8:00am -3:00pm)

Inmate Mailing Address:

Inmate Name, ID Number
Bolduc Correctional Facility
516 Cushing Road
Warren, ME 04864

Charleston Correctional Facility

Charleston Correctional Facility
1202 Dover Road
Charleston, ME 04422

Telephone: (207)-285-0800

Inmate Mailing Address:

Inmate Name, ID Number
​Charleston Correctional Facility
1202 Dover Road
Charleston, ME 04422

Downeast Correctional Facility

Downeast Correctional Facility
64 Base Road
Machiasport, ME 04655

Telephone: (207)-255-1100

Inmate Mailing Address:

Inmate Name, ID Number
​Downeast Correctional Facility
64 Base Road
Machiasport, ME 04655

Maine Correctional Center

Maine Correctional Center
17 Mallison Falls Road
Windham, Maine 04062

Telephone: (207)-893-7000

Inmate Mailing Address:

Inmate Name, ID Number
​Maine Correctional Center
17 Mallison Falls Road
Windham, Maine 04062

Maine State Prison

Maine State Prison
807 Cushing Road
Warren, ME 04864-4600

Telephone: (207)-273-5300

Inmate Mailing Address:

Inmate Name, ID Number
Maine State Prison
807 Cushing Road
Warren, ME 04864-4600

Southern Maine Re-entry Center

Southern Maine Re-entry Center
2 Layman Way
Alfred, ME 04002

Telephone: (207)-490-5205

Inmate Mailing Address:

Inmate Name, ID Number
​Southern Maine Re-entry Center
2 Layman Way
Alfred, ME 04002

Maine Correctional Center

Maine Correctional Center
17 Mallison Falls Road
Windham, Maine 04062

Telephone: (207)-893-7000

Inmate Mailing Address:

Inmate Name, ID Number
​Maine Correctional Center
17 Mallison Falls Road
Windham, Maine 04062

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